The best time for installing outdoor holiday lights and Christmas lights is before the weather turns cold and wet. Not only is it safer, but it is also easier and more comfortable to work outdoors in mild weather. In bad weather, climbing ladders and working along the eaves of a roof can be quite a dangerous challenge.
How to Hang Lights Like A Pro In Under Two Hours
You can get much of the preparation done, even if you don’t actually hang your light strings well ahead of the season, such as installing hooks and hangers, running extension cords, and so forth.
Also, to save yourself time, check your lights BEFORE it’s time to hang them. That way you’ll have PLENTY of time to make repairs or replacements if needed. Also, map out a game plan ahead of time to plan accordingly.
When buying lights, go for shorter rather than longer light strings. That way if a string stops working, you can replace it more affordably, as well as easily.
1) Locate your electrical outlet.
From a working 120-volt electrical outlet protected by a groud-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), plan to run heavy-duty extension cords. Ideally, plug the lights into an automatic timer, or use a switch-controlled outlet. Both the timer and the receptacle’s circuit must be rated to handle the combined amperes of all the light strings. Do not use an indoor timer outdoors.
2) Take the Measurements
Measure the length and height of your house along the ground using a long measuring tape. Also, measure the height of any trees or bushes you intend to light. Then measure the lengths of the light strings you’ll use to outline windows or doors. For all these measurements, figure the number of 50-feet light strings it will take.
3) Testing
Visually inspect the light strings before you plug them in, looking for missing or broken and defective or worn wiring so as to replace them.
Hanging the Lights
Hang lights as easily and safely as possible without harming your home’s walls or trim. For attaching lights to similar vertical surfaces and window trim, use nail-on plastic clips or tube lights clips. Don’t use nails or staples to hang light strings- they can wear away or pierce the protective insulation, creating an electrical hazard.
Proactive Landscaping Services
When you follow these tips and tricks and you’ll be hanging lights like a professional in NO TIME! Proactive Landscaping wants your Christmas light project to be as easy as possible. Give us a call today for any questions or concerns you have for us.
